Peoria is at a crossroads. As we move through 2024 and into 2025, our city continues to be plagued by an unacceptable level of violence that has torn apart families, shaken neighborhoods, and left our community searching for solutions. Under the leadership of Mayor Dr. Rita Ali and Peoria County Board Chairman James Dillon, Peorians were promised safer streets, stronger communities, and a proactive approach to tackling crime. Yet, the reality we face today tells a different story.
Violence in Peoria is not just a statistic—it is a crisis that demands immediate and decisive action. Our citizens should not have to live in fear of gunfire in their own neighborhoods. Our businesses should not suffer due to crime that discourages investment and growth. And our children should not have their futures dictated by the shadows of violence.
While Mayor Ali and Chairman Dillon have spoken about addressing crime, the results so far have been disappointing. Leadership is not about words—it is about action. The people of Peoria deserve a comprehensive crime reduction strategy that includes:
- Increased Community Policing & Law Enforcement Support – Our officers need more resources, more manpower, and a stronger commitment from city and county leadership to enforce laws effectively.
- Accountability for Repeat Offenders – Too often, violent criminals are back on the streets within days. We must hold offenders accountable while ensuring our justice system works for victims, not just perpetrators.
- Investment in Youth & Prevention Programs – Crime prevention starts before a gun is ever fired. Peoria must expand youth engagement programs, job opportunities, and mentorship initiatives to steer our young people toward brighter futures.
- Neighborhood Revitalization – Neglected communities with high crime rates need direct investment in infrastructure, housing, and economic development to create safe and thriving environments.
- Collaboration Between City, County & Community Leaders – Peoria cannot afford division in its leadership. We need transparency, urgency, and a unified effort to restore safety and stability to our city.
The time for excuses and ineffective policies is over. The people of Peoria deserve leadership that is proactive, not reactive; decisive, not hesitant; and bold enough to make real change. As we continue through 2025, we demand that Mayor Rita Ali and Chairman James Dillon take immediate and meaningful action to combat violence and restore peace to our community.
Our city’s future depends on it.
